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Check how to register for Self Assessment

Register for Self Assessment if you're not self-employed

You must tell HMRC by 5 October if you need to send a tax return and you have not sent one before.

What you’ll need to register

You’ll need your:

  • full name
  • postal address (this can be outside of the UK)
  • date of birth
  • daytime telephone number
  • UK National Insurance number, if you have one

You’ll be asked to explain why you’re registering for Self Assessment. Check if you need to send a tax return if you’re not sure.

Register online

Start now

You need to sign in to register. If you do not already have sign in details, you’ll be able to create them when you sign in for the first time.

If you cannot use the online service

  1. Fill in form SA1.
  2. Print and post it to HMRC, using the postal address shown on the form.

What happens next

You’ll usually get an activation code for your new account in the post within 7 working days (21 if you’re abroad). It may take longer during busy periods. 

If you have not received your activation code within 7 (or 21 days), you can check when to expect it.

When you get the code, sign in to activate your Self Assessment.

You can replace an activation code if you do not receive it or you lose it.

After you register

You’ll usually get your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post in 15 working days (21 days if you’re abroad), but it may take longer during busy periods. You’ll get it sooner in your personal tax account or HMRC app.

You can find a UTR number if you’ve lost it.

Your answers

Start again

1. Why do you need to send a Self Assessment tax return?
For another reason (for example, you have income from a pension or a property)
Change 1. Why do you need to send a Self Assessment tax return?
2. Did you send a tax return last year?
No, I'm registering for the first time
Change 2. Did you send a tax return last year?

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